Cueva Eirós, Prehistoric cave in Cancelo, Spain.
Cueva Eirós is a limestone cave in the mountains of Galicia with multiple chambers connected by passages. These spaces contain extensive stalactite and stalagmite formations that have developed over thousands of years.
The cave contains evidence of habitation by both Neanderthals and early modern humans dating back more than 35,000 years. This archaeological record captures a critical transition point in the region's deep past.
The cave walls display Paleolithic art, representing the most western known example of such artwork in the Cantabrian region. This artistic record offers a window into how prehistoric people expressed themselves and their world.
Access requires advance arrangements with local authorities and proper safety equipment before entering. The interior remains damp and passages can be slippery underfoot, so wear suitable footwear and clothing.
This site holds the only known archaeological sequence in northwestern Spain documenting the transition between Neanderthals and modern humans. This layered record makes it exceptionally valuable for understanding how this change unfolded in this part of Europe.
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